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Heritage Trees of Portland

#130 Ponderosa Pine

#157 Oregon White Oak

#236 Monkey Puzzle

#289 Crape Myrtle

#75 Oregon White Oak

What is a Heritage Tree?

Heritage Trees are trees that have been formally recognized by City Council for their unique size, age, historical or horticultural significance. Once accepted by Council, Heritage Trees are designated with a small plaque and listed in the Heritage Tree database.

There are nearly 300 Heritage Trees throughout Portland, and new trees are added each year. Anyone can nominate a Heritage Tree! Heritage Trees are protected by City Code; once designated, no Heritage Tree can be removed without the consent of the Urban Forestry Commission and the Portland City Council.

How do I nominate a Heritage Tree?

Complete and return this form. The nomination deadline is May 1 each year. It takes about a year to receive Heritage Tree designation once the nominated tree has been accepted.

This 68-page guide has maps, species descriptions, best viewing times, and more. Print copies (black and white) are available from the Urban Forestry office for $5. To receive a copy, please send a $5 check to: PP&R Urban Forestry, Heritage Tree Program, 10910 N. Denver Ave, Portland, OR 97217.

Can I prune or remove a Heritage Tree?

A permit from Urban Forestry is required before pruning, inoculating, or doing any other tree work on a Heritage Tree, whether the tree is in the City right-of-way or on private property. Permits for tree work (excluding tree removal) are free and include a consultation by an Urban Forestry Tree Inspector.

A Heritage Tree can only be approved for removal if it is dead, dying, or dangerous. The Urban Forestry Commission and Portland City Council must formally decommission the tree before a permit can be issued for removal.